Illinois lawmakers approve $1-a-pack cigarette tax increase



I Patrick Quinn do solemly swear that I will wipe my ass with the Constitution and rob people of their money so help me God

SPRINGFIELD --- Illinois lawmakers today approved a $1-a-pack cigarette tax hike to generate more money for health care for low-income people.

The Senate voted 31-27 in favor, sending the measure to Gov. Pat Quinn, who has said he supports it.

The state cigarette tax would rise from 98 cents a pack to $1.98 a pack.

If it passes, the state would generate $350 million and use it to leverage another $350 million from the federal government.

Another provision would put in place a new tax on the state's hospitals with the hopes of generating $50 million that could leverage another $50 million from Washington.

The House approved the cigarette-tax increase Friday.